Filming starts for Meryl Streep-starrer ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’

Los Angeles, July 1 (IANS) The sequel to the iconic Hollywood film ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ has gone into production. Hollywood stars Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci are officially set to return with their parts in the upcoming sequel.

Kenneth Branagh will also join the cast as the husband of Miranda Presley (Streep), the demanding editor-in-chief of Runway magazine, reports ‘Variety’.

Disney’s 20th Century Studios confirmed the news on Instagram, sharing only a teaser of two devilish red pumps.

As per ‘Variety’, based on Lauren Weisberger’s 2004 novel, ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ follows aspiring journalist Andy Sachs (Hathaway) who is hired at a glossy fashion magazine (it’s a job a million girls “would kill” to get!) but finds herself at the mercy of her demanding editor-in-chief.

The dishy book is a roman a clef,Weisberger briefly worked as Anna Wintour’s assistant at Vogue. In especially timely news, Wintour announced last week her plans to down as American Vogue’s editor-in-chief after 37 years.

Plot details for the sequel haven’t been confirmed, but the storyline reportedly follows Miranda Priestly as she navigates her career amid the decline of traditional magazine publishing. She faces off against Blunt’s character, her one-time assistant who is now a high-powered executive for a luxury group with advertising dollars that Priestly desperately needs.

It’s not clear how Hathway’s Andy Sachs will factor into the story; at the end of the first film, she quits Runway and takes a job at a newspaper. David Frankel and Aline Brosh McKenna, who directed and wrote the original film, are returning for the sequel.

‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ is set to arrive in cinemas worldwide on May 1, 2026.

–IANS

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Digital Creator Amit Bhadana signs multi-vertical deal with Saregama

Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) Content creator Amit Bhadana has signed a multi-vertical deal with Saregama for a theatrical film, a music video, live shows, and brand collaborations.

Elated on his new collaboration, Bhadana shared, “Signing my first feature film as a lead is a dream I’ve carried for years. It’s not just a film—it’s a statement. A youth-driven story that I believe can spark ‘jagrukta’ among the audience. Writing, directing, and acting in it is a challenge, but one I’m ready for. We’re in an era where creators are moving from YouTube to the big screen—and this is my next step. I’ve poured my heart into it, and I can’t wait for the audience to experience it.”

Shedding further light on the deal, Vikram Mehra, Managing Director, Saregama added, “At Saregama, we’ve always seen ourselves as custodians of India’s entertainment legacy—while constantly evolving with the times. Partnering with creators like Amit, who are culturally rooted and connect effortlessly with today’s audiences, is a natural extension of that promise. Together, we aim to build stories and experiences that are familiar, fresh, and truly reflective of India’s evolving storytelling spirit.”

Giving his InstaFam the exciting update, Bhadana wrote, “Youtube se sidha Theatre ki film woh bhi lead role mein” Yeh aaj hua hai. Hindustan ka pehla youtuber jo theatre mein film laayega as a lead role. Meri kamayi aap sabka pyaar aur izzat hai. (From YouTube directly to a film in the theatre, and that too in a lead role. This has happened today. The first YouTuber in India to bring a film to the theatre as a lead role. My earnings are your love and respect)”

Bhadana is all set to make his theatrical debut with a feature film that will be produced by Saregama.

In addition to the movie, the deal also includes a high-energy music video.

Last but not least, the Saregama banner will also now exclusively represent Bhadan in all his live shows and branded content partnerships.

–IANS

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It’s a wrap for Dhanush and Kriti Sanon’s ‘Tere Ishk Mein’

Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) Actor Dhanush has finally concluded the shoot for Aanand L Rai’s “Tere Ishk Mein”, alongside Kriti Sanon.

He shared the professional update on social media by dropping a photo of two blooded hands holding each other, along with the caption, “And it’s a wrap,” with a red heart emoji.

A spiritual successor to the world of “Raanjhanaa”, the sequel delves deeper into themes of unrequited love, longing, and emotional conflict.

“Tere Ishk Mein” also reunites the “Raanjhanaa” team of director Aanand L Rai, Dhanush, and the Oscar-winning music composer, A.R. Rahman. The trio had last collaborated for the 2021 romantic fantasy “Atrangi Re”.

The drama has been creating massive buzz ever since the release of the teaser that showed Dhanush setting a wall on fire, accompanied by the words, “From the world of Raanjhanaa.” We could also hear in the background, “Pichli baar to Kundan tha, maan gaya, par iss bar Shankar ko kaise rokoge? (Last time it was Kundan, he accepted it, but how will you stop Shankar this time?).”

On the other hand, the initial glimpse of Kriti as Mukti had her walking through a chaotic, warlike scene. She was seen pouring petrol on herself and holding a lighter, prepared to set herself on fire.

Both the characters hint towards a chaotic love saga between two people linked by destiny.

Presented by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series, and Colour Yellow, “Tere Ishk Mein” has been jointly backed by Aanand L Rai, Himanshu Sharma, Bhushan Kumar, and Krishan Kumar.

The screenplay of the much-awaited drama has been penned by Himanshu Sharma, along with Neeraj Yadav. Written by Himanshu Sharma, the project will feature the score composed by music maestro A.R. Rahman, with lyrics by Irshad Kamil.

“Tere Ishk Mein” is slated to be released across the globe in Hindi and Tamil on November 28 this year.

–IANS

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When Ram Kapoor hosted Bollywood bigwigs at his Los Angeles house during his college

Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) Actor Ram Kapoor who was last seen in the streaming series ‘Khalbali Records’, has shared that once during his academic years, several Bollywood bigwigs stayed at his accommodations.

The actor recently appeared on choreographer Farah Khan’s YouTube channel. During the show, Farah spoke about how at one point, Ram weighed over 150 kgs.

The actor said, “When I was in college guys, this is for Farah Khan’s audience, when I was in college in Los Angeles. I was in Los Angeles in acting school. In one of my houses, Sajid Khan, Sajid Nadiadwala, Arbaaz Khan and Rajesh Sathi came for 2 weeks, and stayed with me. And that time I was the size of the planet Jupiter”.

Earlier, Farah reflected on her journey in Hindi cinema as she spoke about working with the next generation of stars. Farah revealed the emotional connection she shares with the children of some of the biggest stars she once worked with.

Speaking about choreographing Junaid Khan, the son of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, and Khushi Kapoor, daughter of the late actress Sridevi, Farah shared, “It was a surreal experience because literally, I think I was working with Aamir in ‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’ and after that Junaid was born. We all had gone to his house with Mansoor and everybody to congratulate him. Same with Sridevi also, I was quite close to her, Boney, and the whole Kapoor family. For me, it was very wonderful”.

She continued, “It just feels weird that I’ve been around for so long. I don’t feel it. It’s just that when I shoot with these guys, I realize that, oh my god, I started my career with Aamir and now I’m choreographing his son”.

–IANS

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Gulfam Khan Hussain pays tribute to legendary Meena Kumari in Pakeezah style

Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) Celebrated actress and writer Gulfam Khan Hussain paid homage to the legendary Meena Kumari by recreating her iconic look from the timeless “Pakeezah”.

”Meena Kumari ji was not just an actress — she was poetry in motion. To embody even a fraction of her presence is a deeply humbling experience. This look is my love letter to her, to the film Pakeezah, and to an era of cinema that still breathes in every artist’s soul,” Hussain shared.

Hussain was seen donning a blush-pink salwaar kameez with a net dupatta with a heavy golden border on the head. She completed her look with huge jumkas, a nose ring, and light pink-toned makeup.

This look is Hussain’s attempt to reintroduce Meena Kumar’s elegance through the lens of a modern artist deeply rooted in tradition and art.

Aside from her powerful expressions, Meena Kumar also brought her character to life with her ensembles in the movie. From wearing vibrant colors for her performances to wearing only white otherwise, her choice of attire spoke volumes of her character’s mindset in every phase of “Pakeezah”.

At the moment, Gulfam is busy with a series of projects that compile art, film, and literature.

She stepped into acting back in 2003 with the TV series “Lipstick”. Ever since then, she has been a part of numerous popular shows such as “Aladdin – Naam Toh Suna Hoga” as Nazneen, “Naamkarann” as Fatima Banu, “Diya Aur Baati Hum”, “Laado 2” as Rajjo Choudhary, and “Madhubala – Ek Ishq Ek Junoon” as Sanchita Ghosh, to name just a few.

Furthermore, she has also worked in many films including “Ek Hasina Thi”

“Talaash”, “Lakshmi”, “Astitva”, “Kyaa Super Kool Hai Hum”, and “The Legend of Michael Mishra”.

Along with acting, Hussain has also written screenplays for television and films, including the show “Comedy Circus” and the movie “Hisss”.

–IANS

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Director Sherief’s film with KPY Bala titled ‘Gandhi Kannadi’

Chennai, June 30(IANS) The makers of director Sherief’s upcoming film, through which well known comedian ‘Kalakka Povadhu Yaaru ‘(KPY) fame Bala will turn hero, on Monday announced that the film had been titled ‘Gandhi Kannadi’.

The film, which is based on a real life story, is being produced by JayiKiran of Adhimulam Creations.

Director Sherief, who is directing this film, is best known for having made the gripping thriller ‘Ranam Aram Thavarel’.

KPY Bala, whose wit and sense of comic timing has helped win hearts, will be seen playing an emotionally intense character in his debut film as a hero.

Sources say the film, which is based on a true story, will be a feel-good emotional drama and that Sherief, apart from directing it, has also written the story and screenplay for the film. They added that the shooting of the film had been successfully completed, and that post-production work was now in full swing.

Producer JayiKiran said, “Gandhi Kannadi is not just our first film—it’s a story that moved me deeply. The sincerity and emotion in the script are what made me want to bring it to life. I’m incredibly proud of the cast and crew who have poured their hearts into this film. With Bala stepping into a powerful role and a solid team backing the vision, I believe we’ve created something truly special.”

KPY Bala, who has made a mark with his humour and humanity, now steps into the spotlight with his first-ever lead role in ‘Gandhi Kannadi’. He portrays an emotionally layered protagonist in this feel-good drama.

Director Sherief said,“Gandhi Kannadi is very personal to me. After the emotional weight of Ranam Aram Thavarel, I wanted to shift to something more grounded and uplifting. The moment I narrated the story to our producer, his instant approval gave me all the motivation I needed. It’s Bala’s debut as a hero, and having Balaji Sakthivel sir and Archana ma’am—both National Award-winners—along with Namitha in a key role, really strengthens the film. I’m confident that we’ve created a film that’s honest and full of heart.”

–IANS

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Siddhant Chaturvedi shared his ‘Kuch yaadein Baarishon ki’ this rainy season

Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) We all have some fond memories from our childhood on rainy days. Actor Siddhant Chaturvedi also decided to reminisce a few of these memories through his latest Instagram post.

Forgetting your umbrella in the rain, and then trying to save yourself from the rain with an examination pad, trying to look cool after wearing a windcheater, to jumping in puddles to spill water on your friends – this is what rain signifies for the ‘Gully Boy’ actor.

Dropping a couple of pictures of enjoying himself in the rain, Chaturvedi wrote, “Baarish ke dino me school mein chaata bhool jaana. Phir exam pad se sar dhakna, phir Wingsheeter(Windcheater) pehen cool banana…aur saath chalte doston pe kood kood kar paani uchalna…Ye Kuch meri yaadein Baarishon ki…Ab aap Apni batao?”

Work-wise, Chaturvedi is presently busy filming his upcoming project “Dhadak 2”, alongside Triptii Dimri.

Taking to his IG, he shared a heartfelt post from Bhopal, saying, “Iss sheher mein meri Dhadhak basti hai”. During his stay, Chaturvedi enjoyed some simple pleasures of the city — sipping tea by the lake, walking by the Upper Lake, and relishing some local delicacies.

In the last picture, he added the quote, “Sapnon ki kya kemat bataun…Bas roz kam hota hain udhaar mera.”

Meanwhile, the makers of “Dhadak 2” have unveiled the first-look poster of Chaturvedi and Dimri from the drama.

Chaturvedi can be seen shielding his love from the world with intense determination in his eyes. On the other hand, we can also see Dimri’s close-up as she holds the man she loves.

While Chaturvedi will play Neelesh in the sequel, Dimri will be seen essaying the role of Vidhi.

Helmed and penned by Shazia Iqbal, the drama is a spiritual sequel to the 2018 outing “Dhadak” starring Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter.

Backed by Dharma Productions in collaboration with Zee Studios and Cloud 9 Pictures, “Dhadak 2” is expected to be out in the theatres on August 1.

–IANS

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Actor Suriya tells Vishnu Manchu: Proud of you for creating something that touches so many hearts!

Chennai, June 30 (IANS) Actor Vishnu Manchu on Monday penned a note of gratitude to actor Suriya after the latter sent a bouquet and a congratulatory note for the success of ‘Kannappa’, saying he was proud of Vishnu Manchu for creating something that had touched so many hearts.

Taking to his X timeline, Vishnu Manchu posted a picture of the flower bouquet and the message Suriya had sent him and thanked him for both the flowers and the message.

Suriya, in his message to Vishnu, had said, “Big congratulations dear brother Vishnu on this amazing milestone! Your passion, hardwork, and faith through all the expectations have truly paid off. So proud of you for creating something that touches so many hearts. Wishing you even more success ahead.”

Responding to Suriya’s message, Vishnu Manchu wrote, “Big brother @Suriya_offl ! Thank you so much for the flowers and more so the message. I continue to look at your work for inspiration and today getting such a message from you is one of the biggest highlights. Love you my big brother.”

Earlier in the day, Vishnu Manchu had lamented that his film was under attack from piracy. Appealing to audiences not to support piracy, Vishnu Manchu had said, “Dear movie lovers, #Kannappa is under attack from piracy. Over 30,000 illegal links have already been taken down. This is heartbreaking. Piracy is theft — plain and simple. We don’t teach our children to steal. Watching pirated content is no different.Please don’t encourage it. Support cinema the right way.Har Har Mahadev.”

The film has Vishnu Manchu playing the titular role of Thinnadu(Kannappa), the fearless warrior-turned-devotee who transformed into the ultimate devotee of Lord Shiva. Akshay Kumar essays the role of Lord Shiva, while Mohanlal commands attention as Kirata. Prabhas sets the stage for an unforgettable cinematic experience with his role of Rudra. Priety Mukhundan plays the female lead in the film, which has music by Stephan Devassy.

Cinematography is by US cinematographer Sheldon Chau and Siddharth. Dance choreography is by Prabhu Deva and editing by renowned editor Antony. The film has been produced by Vishnu Manchu’s father and eminent actor Mohan Babu. A vast portion of the film has been shot in New Zealand on a huge budget.

–IANS

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Shriya Pilgaonkar calls ‘Mandala Murders Mol Chukana Padega’ a full-circle moment

Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) Actress Shriya Pilgaonkar, who will be soon seen in the upcoming streaming show ‘Mandala Murders Mol Chukana Padega’, has called it a full-circle moment.

While details about her role in the show are a guarded secret, reports suggest she will be seen in a “never-seen-before avatar”, adding an intriguing layer to the gripping thriller series.

The show also stars Vaani Kapoor, Surveen Chawla, and Vaibhav Raj Gupta. It promises intense action and intricate storytelling as detectives uncover murders connected to a hidden society. The show marks Shriya’s return to the YRF banner, and highlights Shriya’s evolving journey and her growing prominence in the OTT space.

Speaking about her reunion with the production house that launched her Bollywood journey, Shriya expressed, “Absolutely thrilled to reunite with YRF after they launched me in ‘Fan’”.

‘Fan’ marked her Bollywood debut, and featured Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan in dual roles.

She further mentioned, “Collaborating with the incredible team of ‘Mandala Murders’ has been such an exciting journey. This character is unlike anything I’ve portrayed before, a completely different avatar, and I’m truly grateful to Adi Sir and Gopi Sir for trusting me with this role”.

This collaboration follows closely after her recent critically acclaimed show, ‘Chhal Kapat: The Deception’. In this series, Shriya Pilgaonkar took on the challenging role of SP Devika Rathore, a sharp and intuitive police officer investigating an intense crime.

Last year, Shriya joined the jury panel of the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) for the Shorts category at the 2024 edition of the festival.

She said in a statement at the time, “I am honoured and thrilled to be invited as a jury member for the short film category at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles 2024. I look forward to attending the festival in LA and watching these stellar shorts by emerging South Asian filmmakers”.

“The atmosphere at film festivals is always creatively energising and deeply inspiring. I’m excited to meet and interact with diverse storytellers and performers, and to witness the incredible lineup of films at IFFLA”, she added.

–IANS

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Rihanna on donning multiple hats in Smurfs: ‘It was invigorating and exciting’

Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) Singer and actress Rihanna has donned multiple hats in the upcoming movie “The Smurfs”. Along with lending her voice to Smurfette, she is also the producer and musical head of the project.

Shedding light on playing multiple roles in the drama, Rihanna called it equally thrilling and challenging.

Speaking during the global promotions, the ‘Battleship’ actress talked about her experience of being a part of the movie.

“It was invigorating and exciting for me to not only embody a character but also bring my musical life into the mix. We worked with music producers and choreographers whose work I admire. To put those two worlds together was a win-win for everyone. It pushed us all to challenge our artistry”, Rihanna added.

She further revealed that during her childhood in Barbados, “Smurfs” was a part of her routine. The ‘Ocean’s 8’ actress went on to share, “So many mornings, I woke up long before I was supposed to get ready for school just to get that dose of Smurfs.”

Rihanna added that she has related a lot to the character of Smurfette and what she stands for. “First of all, I have always loved makeup and hair. We all know that. And she’s an esthetician. She’s also a powerful leader, independent, strong, beautiful, sassy, witty, and very empathetic. I was super-inspired by all of that. I think she loves music too and her favorite genres are hip-hop, reggae, Afrobeats, ballads, and house. That’s Smurfette. She needs options,” she said.

Rihanna took inspiration for her character from some real-life women, plucking little things from each of them.

“They are all so different in personality, tone, and attitude, but I feel like these are the women who are with me daily. Smurfette needed to come from all of us,” she concluded.

“The Smurfs” will be reaching India on July 18th. The movie will be available in both English and Hindi.

–IANS

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